A Broward Sheriff’s Office deputy was killed in a motorcycle crash while off-duty on the Fourth of July, officials say.
I.U.P.A. Local 6020, the BSO deputies’ union, identified him Thursday as 27-year-old Anthony Zahorovsky. He had a pregnant wife and a son who is about 2 years old.
Zahorovsky, known affectionately as “Z” by fellow deputies, was riding his motorcycle on North Pine Island Road in Sunrise a little after noon when he collided with an SUV that was turning west onto Springtree Lakes Drive, according to Sunrise Police. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
An army veteran, Zahorovsky had been a deputy only for a few years, but was eager to learn. He had ambitions of working in narcotics, always asking questions, recalled Sgt. Greg LaCerra, the vice president of the union, who supervised Zahorovsky on and off in Parkland beginning in 2022.
“I was pretty shocked yesterday,” LaCerra said. “Just kind of sat there and stared off into space a little while.”
Zahorovsky was the kind of person a supervisor could count on if they needed help. He also served as a representative in the union, a level of involvement uncommon for a deputy his age, and a testament to his character, LaCerra said.
“It is with deep sadness that we confirm the loss of deputy Anthony Zahorosvky,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “Our hearts are with his family during this devastating moment. It is our prayer his family finds comfort in the loving memories of Anthony and the difference he made in his young life. We mourn his loss but remember his life.”
Fellow deputies and police officers from across the country also took to social media to remember Zahorovsky.
“R.I.P. Deputy Anthony Zahorovsky,” wrote Dahrnaz Tigner, a fellow deputy. “You were a Great Father, a Great Friend, a Great Deputy, and most importantly you were a GREAT PERSON. You always selflessly placed the happiness and wellbeing of others before your own, and you always reminded everyone that they have a reason to smile.”
Part of I.U.P.A’s statement reads, “Anthony’s loss is deeply felt by all of us. As a colleague, friend, and family member, he touched many lives. During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences, thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support to Anthony’s family. May they find strength in the memories of Anthony’s life and the positive impact he had on those around him.”
